Stage managers
What is a stage manager?
There is no single definition or job description for the tasks performed by the person who accepts the title of stage manager for any theatrical production. Every theatre or production company has different ideas and expectations regarding the Stage Manager's role in the production process. Each director may ask different things of the stage manager for each individual production. Therefore, the individual who accepts this position must be as flexible as the job description itself.
A stage manager's success generally can't be measured in quantitative terms. There are, however, some basic qualities and character traits of good stage managers which remain constant.
- A stage manager is someone who desires and accepts responsibility.
- A stage manager is a tactful communicator with a sense of humour.
- A stage manager is organised, adaptable, and thinks quickly on their feet while keeping the goals and priorities of the artistic crew in mind.
- A stage manager is often privy to confidential information. As a condition of this knowledge, a stage manager knows when to keep their mouth shut and their eyes and ears open.
- A stage manager creates positive energy and inspires those around them to give 110% to the task at hand.
- A stage manager has at least some basic knowledge of each aspect of a theatrical production.
In short, a stage manager is an artist, parent, friend, confidant, nurse, drill sergeant and cheerleader. Anyone who does not have the potential to possess all of these character traits and is not comfortable with juggling all of these responsibilities and roles at once should think twice before accepting a stage management position.
10 golden rules of stage management
- Learn from mistakes. No one is perfect. We all make mistakes as we practice our crafts. The best thing anyone can do is to analyse these situations and learn how to avoid making the same mistake again.
- Don't panic! Always remain calm, cool and collected. Never, never yell. All stage managers should know the difference between raising their voices to be heard and yelling. If the stage manager loses it, everyone will panic.
- Safety first! Inspect the set daily for potential problems. Are all stairs and platforms secure? Are all escapes adequately lit and glow taped? Do you know where the first aid kits and fire extinguishers are located? Who is certified in CPR and first aid?
- Plan and think ahead. What can be done to avoid problems? How can the stage manager's make life easier for everyone?
- There are no dumb questions. It is better to ask and feel silly for a few seconds than to cause a disaster later.
- Prioritise tasks and delegate authority. One person can't do everything. Why do we have assistants if we don't use them?
- Early is on time. The stage manager should always be the first person in and the last person out of the theatre for a meeting or rehearsal. Try to show up about 15 minutes before you need to be there, just in case traffic is bad or any problems or delays occur.
- Communicate. Have regular conversations with the director, lighting designer/operator and sound designer/operator. Don't wait for them to come to you with problems.
- Please and thank you. Use these word everyday. Encourage everyone on the production team including cast members to treat each other with respect.
- Stage managers DO make coffee. They also do a million other menial tasks that are meant to make people happy and boost morale.
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